I flew my Matrix in two pattern contests with so-so results. It's just not a good enough design to do real well in
serious competition. It's easy to fly but that won't do it in pattern. I don't fly 3-D so I can't comment on that but
it's probably the same story. They were trying to design an airplane that could fly both 3-D and pattern and it's pretty
good at both but not real good at either. I had forgotten how precise a real pattern plane flies until I finished my
Illusion and took it up for the first few flights this past weekend. It's such a good feeling to fly an airplane that
does absolutely nothing unless you ask it to. This plane is superb in the wind , the Matrix is pretty squirrely in wind.
To answer your questions my Matrix weighs 5-3/4 lbs with a SuperTigre .60 Bluehead. The prop that works best for me
is an APC 11 x 9 pattern , probably not good for 3-D but gets the best vertical and speed control for pattern.
I stated in previous remarks that I liked the Matrix and I still do for just knock around flying but for serious competition
it has just been demoted a few steps. I think for a really great flying airplane in the same size as the Matrix the Widebody
40 would be my first choice. I am currently finishing a Widebody 60 with a YS 1.10 which I will fly in intermediate class
for next year.
Good luck with your Matrix. I wouldn't worry about the weight as long as your engine is good and strong. It will probably
fly better in the wind.

tommy s